State tones down dress code norms

The State government on Monday issued a modified circular on the implementation of dress code for government employees.

In an earlier circular, the government had made suggestions for “decent” dress. But, the new circular has done away with the suggestions.

The new circular was issued as per Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s instructions. While one association of government employees welcomed the move, another opposed the introduction of the dress code.

On September 12, citing a memorandum from the general secretary of the Secretariat Employees Association, the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms issued a circular “hoping” that the employees would wear decent clothes to work.

The circular also suggested that men may wear trousers, shirts, kurtas or pyjamas to work, while women may take to sarees or churidars. The circular suggested that such dress could be considered “decent.” But it did not comment on other dresses.

However, on Monday, the government withdrew the clause to avoid any controversy and “misinterpretation.”

The modified circular said: “We hope that the employees will wear decent clothes and not go against the decorum of the secretariat.” It is applicable to employees of all cadres.

The circular also said the present government handbook prescribes uniforms for drivers and group D employees only. They must follow the rules, it added.